Beloved and Sent

[Intro] Welcome to our new eight week series, “Unveiling the Kingdom,” beginning with Christ’s baptism to his Transfiguration. In this series, Jesus reveals His identity, mission, and the values of God’s kingdom, inviting us to follow Him. That’s where we will be heading for the next two months.

[Scripture Reading] Luke 3:15-17, 21-22.

[Prayer of Illumination] Lord, unveil the kingdom before our very eyes and let your Spirit empower the words of my mouth. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

In Luke’s gospel, he unveils the uniqueness of God’s kingdom that is breaking into our world. It began at Christmas, at the Epiphany, and now 30-years later after the birth of Jesus.

John [Jesus’ cousin] is leading people to repentance. Preparing the way of the Lord. Now, his is laying aside his ministry and the One who is more mighty than him. Why is this so? It because of what He can do. Send the Spirit.

[Main Point 1] In God's kingdom, the Spirit immerses anyone who hopes in Jesus Christ (Luke 3:15-17).

[Illustration] Unworthiness of John, “He must increase, I must decrease. The spirit of every Christian who knows Jesus.

[Application] In a world searching for hope, we are called to point others to Jesus, the true source of salvation and transformation. Will you be a John?

[Main Point 2] Among sinners, Jesus is baptized to identify with our sinfulness and reveal the love of the Father as the Beloved (Luke 3:21-22).

[Illustration] Jacopo Tintoretto’s The Baptism of Christ shows Jesus being baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. Jesus stands humbly at the center, while the Holy Spirit, shown as a glowing dove, comes down from heaven in a bright light. The painting uses strong contrasts of light and shadow to highlight the importance of this moment when God declares Jesus as His beloved Son. Angels and other figures nearby add to the sense of wonder and connection between heaven and earth.

[Application] As God’s children, we are also beloved, chosen, and affirmed by the Father through Christ. Reflect on how this identity shapes your life.

[Main Point 3] The Holy Spirit's empowerment began at your baptism and now continues through you through your prayer life.

[Illustration] The two elements of the kingdom can be seen and felt outside. Water and Wind. Water washes away and the wind leads and moves, likewise in baptism. We are cleanse, renewed and led by the Spirit.

[Application] Surrender through the waters of baptism and the posture of the prayer and trust in the empowerment of the Spirit.

[Proposition] Remember your baptism, and know you are loved and commissioned for God's kingdom.

Jesus invites us to become the beloved children, who are sent on mission to transform the world for the gospel.

Trust Jesus, become his beloved, and be empowered by the Spirit.

Amen.